Though the New England Patriots typically stand pat during the league's free agency period, at least when it comes to the top available players on the market, the team has made one of it's most expensive signings in its history on day one.

To say the deal, which includes a reported $40 million guaranteed, is a bit of a shocking move would be a great understatement, especially because of the fact that it was made by the Pats.

New England has stared clear of deals like this in the past, usually opting to pass on signing even their own, homegrown talent when the player is in the ballpark of "big pay day" money.

It appears, however, that Patriots head coach and general manager Bill Belichick finds Gilmore, who has spent his entire 5-year career in the AFC East with Buffalo, worth it.

Gilmore was considered one of the top players on the market heading into the start of free agency today and arguably the top corner available, depending on how you view him and now Jacksonville Jaguars corner A.J. Bouye.